Artisanal gold mining & birdwatching tour at Río Tigre

Discover two of the Osa Peninsula's living treasures in a single morning: the rich tradition of artisanal gold mining and the extraordinary birdlife of the Río Tigre valley. Guided by local miners who learned their craft from their parents and grandparents, you'll experience the culture, history, and biodiversity of Dos Brazos: one of the wildest, most bird-rich corners of Costa Rica.

Overview

Discover two of the Osa Peninsula's living treasures in a single morning: the rich tradition of artisanal gold mining and the extraordinary birdlife of the Río Tigre valley. Guided by local miners who learned their craft from their parents and grandparents, you'll experience the culture, history, and biodiversity of Dos Brazos: one of the wildest, most bird-rich corners of Costa Rica.

Experience highlights

  • Birdwatching along Río Tigre: Río Tigre is renowned among birders. The area hosts a remarkable diversity of species, from tanagers, trogons, and honeycreepers to the region's charismatic Scarlet Macaws. With our guide's keen ear, you may also spot toucans, woodpeckers, motmots, and elusive antbirds in the understory.
  • Expert local guides: Your guides know these forests very well, not only how to read the river for gold, but where the birds feed, nest, and move through the day. They'll help you find and identify species by sight and song.
  • Guided exploration of gold mining: See how traditional tools and techniques, passed down through generations, are still used to read the river, sift its sediments, and uncover its hidden treasures.
  • Hands-on gold panning: Try panning in the river just like traditional miners. It's easy to learn, fun to try, and there's a real rush when you spot tiny gold flakes shining in the gravel.
  • Cultural insight: Learn about the daily lives of artisanal miners, their deep connection to this landscape, and the challenges they face.

Why choose this experience

1

Authentic & immersive: A genuine glimpse into both the natural and cultural heritage of the Osa, led by locals passionate about their home.

2

Support the locals: Your visit directly supports the Río Tigre community and sustainable tourism that protects this rainforest.

3

Great for birders & families: Whether you're chasing a life-list bird or introducing children to the rainforest, this tour welcomes all ages and interests.

Itinerary

5:00-5:30 AM

Drive to Dos Brazos

Drive from Puerto Jiménez to Dos Brazos, followed by a welcome and introduction at Río Tigre.

5:40-8:30 AM

Birdwatching hike

Guided birdwatching hike along Río Tigre, spotting and identifying the valley's many species during the peak morning activity.

8:30-9:00 AM

Explanation of gold panning

Explanation of the gold-panning process and safety briefing.

9:00-11:00 AM

Gold panning

Hands-on gold panning in the river.

11:00-11:30 AM

Fruit & sugarcane juice

Fresh seasonal tropical fruit and homemade sugarcane juice to wrap up the experience.

11:30 AM-12:00 PM

Drive back

Drive back from Río Tigre to Puerto Jiménez.

What's included

  • • Local guide
  • • Gold-panning equipment
  • • Fresh fruit & natural drinks

Not included

  • • Lunch

What to bring

  • Binoculars (if you have them)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Water shoes or sturdy sandals
  • Extra set of clothes

Photo gallery

What our explorers say

"We had a tour with Tomas and hiked from La Sirena to La Leona. He knows the forest very well and all the animals and how to find and call them. It was an amazing experience and he is an amazing guide. He knows how to make an 11 mile hike fun."

Paige H

"If you are traveling to Costa Rica looking for nature, Corcovado is your place. But if you’re looking for a memory-boosting experience, Corcovado explorers are right for you."

Beatriz B
Book this experience

Experience details

Duration
7 hours (4 km round-trip)
Group size
Up to 6
Intensity
Easy - Suitable for all fitness levels
Languages
English, Spanish
Meeting point
Monar Bakery, Puerto Jiménez

Cancellation policy

Cancellations made at least 14 days before the tour date are eligible for a partial refund of the amount paid; cancellations made within 14 days of the tour date are non-refundable.

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